ENGL 389 - American Beauty: Culture & Counterculture

Semester Offered: Fall
0.5 unit(s)

This Intensive explores the persistence of romanticism in American culture, from the mid-nineteenth century to the end of the twentieth. Beginning with Transcendentalist reform movements, we trace how literary radicalism has invariably sought to alter our social arrangements. In particular, we consider how the countercultures of the twentieth century appear to replicate some key elements from earlier historical periods, as expressed in literature, art and music. Authors include Emerson, Thoreau, Fuller, Du Bois, James, Stein, Toomer, Kerouac, Le Guin, Pynchon, Oliver, Didion and others. Classes are held at the Vassar Farm to make use of outdoor educational facilities, as the course entails an experiential component (including field trips). Paul Kane.

Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

First six-week course.

One 3-hour period.

Course Format: INT